By State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper)
As many constituents know, before my time in the Indiana Senate I served in local government on the Dubois County Council and Dubois County Regional Sewer District Board.
These roles gave me an opportunity to learn how local governments operate, which benefits me in the Indiana Senate.
This year I am serving on the Senate Committee on Local Government, which tackles a number of issues moving through the General Assembly that could impact cities, counties, townships or other forms of local government.
My time in local government, and getting to know other local government officials, has given me a great deal of knowledge to offer insights during committee meetings.
I am a strong advocate for delivering solutions at the local level because locals know their communities better than state and federal officials.
This year, the local government committee has heard a number of bills that would expand access to housing, protect residents of mobile home communities, increase transparency on appointed government officials and more.
House Bill 1509, for example, would require local governments to inform residents of the elected official or entity that appointed a government official to various boards and commissions.
This bill would give constituents more knowledge of who appointed the officials that often make important decisions in our communities, and I supported it in the committee because I think this added transparency and accountability is a good thing for all communities.
As always, constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns by email at s48@iga.in.gov or by phone at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper) represents Senate District 48,
which includes Crawford, Dubois, Gibson, Perry, Pike and Spencer counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
